"Living Without Stress or Fear" by Thich Nhat Hanh

I listened to this book as an audio book CD in my vehicle.  The title really struck me as something I should investigate.  After all, who doesn't want to live without stress or fear?  I quickly learned that this book is written by a Zen monk.  It covers various monk philosophies ranging from friendship, respect, love, harmony, nature, exercise, and more.  At no point did I feel the author was trying to convert me to a new religion or to convince me to become a monk.  Rather, I felt like I was sitting in on an exclusive look into the life of a monk.  I learned how all life is connected and how people never truly die (in the same sense that clouds never truly die).  I learned about how matter is not created or destroyed but instead transformed from one form to another.  I learned about the Buddha and other historical figures.  I learned how one of the true paths to "enlightenment" is simply understanding.  This book was very relaxing and I recommend it to others.

"Understanding Investments - The Great Courses" by Professor Connel Fullenkamp from Duke University

This audio book CD is all about financial investments.  It covers the stock market, bonds, 401Ks, real estate, foreign currency, and so much more.  This course is 12 CDs and very academic.  Listeners will feel like they are back in school with a professor as they learn the theory behind economics.  I would not say this is a "get rich quick" course but rather a scholarly course of how economics work.  I learned a lot but would say some parts went over my head.  Luckily, the audio book comes with a small physical book that recaps terms and concepts.  You will even use equations and spreadsheets in this course, so come ready to learn!

"Living the Savvy Life" by Melissa Tosetti and Kevin Gibbons

There are so many fun ways for women to improve their finances that are highlighted in this book.  The savvy life is centered not around being a tightwad but rather being selective in what one purchases.  The key is to live beneath one's means and know when to splurge, bargain shop, or save.  Many practical tips and tricks are given.  Readers are encouraged to coupon clip, shop at thrift stores, only buy clothes that fit / look great, make one's home an oasis, plan meals, cook at home, and stay true to oneself.  Being savvy doesn't mean deny oneself of joy.  For example, if a woman loves designer dresses, that is fine.  She just needs to adjust her budget and save in other areas of her life so she can afford what makes her happy while not breaking the bank.  There are countless examples in the book of those who do and do not lead a savvy life.  There are famous actors who rack up thousands of dollars in debt.  There are people who complain how they can't afford to go on vacation while they sip on their daily $4 latte.  There are people who save and budget for what is important to them.  I really enjoyed this book.  It is practical yet non-judgmental.  Like being physically fit, there is a clear roadmap to follow but no shortcuts or guarantees of success without work.  I encourage all women to read this book and think about how they could be more savvy with their own finances.